Derrion Adams, a 29-year-old inmate at HMP Birmingham, was found dead in his shared cell on October 31 last year, following reports that he was seen “high on drugs and staggering” in the prison corridor. The inquest into his death, held at Birmingham Coroner’s Court on November 10, revealed that the exact cause of death remains undetermined.
During a search of Derrion’s cell on K-wing, officers discovered a vape pen under his bed believed to have been used to smoke spice, a synthetic cannabinoid also known as Black Mamba. Fellow prisoners stated he regularly used the drug, with some suggesting it might have been laced with fentanyl, a potent opioid.
Initially, a prison officer suspected Derrion had suffered a violent assault, due to the presence of blood at the scene. His former cellmate was questioned and even arrested on suspicion of murder but was later released when forensic evidence made a brutal assault unlikely in the confined space they shared. Coroner Emma Brown confirmed no charges were brought following the post-mortem.
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Derrion, originally from Walsall and living in Wolverhampton before his imprisonment in April 2024, had a history of mental health struggles and drug dependency. His mother, Angela Price, expressed deep concern for his wellbeing prior to his death, recalling a final phone call in which he mentioned joining the prison choir and sharing heartfelt words of love with his family.
The inquest heard that Derrion likely experienced a toxic reaction, commonly referred to as a “Mamba attack,” after using synthetic cannabinoids. Evidence showed he had vomited near the time of death, though it remains unclear whether this occurred before or after he died.
In a moving tribute read during the proceedings, Angela described Derrion as a compassionate and kind individual with a great sense of humor who was deeply loved by those who knew him. His father, Phil Adams, also shared a heartfelt farewell, mourning the loss of his son.
The inquiry into Derrion Adams’ death continues as the jury works to piece together the full circumstances surrounding this tragic event.